In Constant Prayer

by Robert Benson

Book Overview

What does it mean to pray without ceasing? Is it really that important to pray as the early Christians did? This title explores the ancient practice of fixed-hour prayer, a structure for our lives... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0849901138
• ISBN13: 9780849901133
• Release Date: January 2008
• Publisher: Thomas Nelson Publishers
• Length: 165 Pages
• Weight: 0.70 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 5.7" x 8.6"

Customer Reviews

Made a believer out of me

I've struggled with finding a way to make daily prayer part of my life for a long time. Maybe it is just all in the timing; but Robert Benson's gently written exhortation to become part of the prayer of Christ's body in the world moved me to try one more time. He makes the case and still leaves room for our human foibles and failures: self-centeredness, lack of discipline, and myriad excuses. This book was a life-changer for me, and my bet is that it will be for many others.

Great Book on Prayer

In Constant Prayer is Robert Benson's contribution to the "Ancient Practices" series. Benson weaves poetic nonfiction regarding the daily offices. Benson argues that the daily offices were practiced first by the Israelites and then by the early Christians, since the early Christians were mostly of Jewish origin. The book is laid out in a simple format. First, Benson describes what the daily offices are, then details how to practice them. The rest of the book is Benson's successes and failures in practicing the daily offices. There are stories of others that excel in prayer, some of them quite wonderful. Benson is a self-described poet, and that shows up in his writing. His prose is melodic and self-effacing. This turns what could be a very boring subject into one that is delightful to read. I found myself taking my time with each chapter, not wanting to rush to the finish of this book. This is an excellent read.

Wonderful, as always

Robert's books are books I read again and again, and this one is no exception. Thoughtful, challenging, encouraging, and filled with wisdom. Thanks, Robert!

Makes You Think

Author Robert Benson did a terrific job writing on the topic of constant prayer. Paul tells us in 1 Thessalonians 5:17 to pray without ceasing...or never stop praying. According to the author, our forefathers had a formal time of prayer every 3-4 hours, while maintaining a constant attitude of prayer. He suggest we follow their lead and structure our lives so that we can be in continuous contact with God on a daily basis. While it doesn't come natural to us, developing this discipline goes a long way to further our spiritual growth and relationship with God. This is an excellent book. I highly recommend it.

Utterly Life Changing

I "inhaled" IN CONSTANT PRAYER my first time through, and now I'm rereading it, savoring every page. Already, it has completely changed my approach to and understanding of the sacredness of praying the daily office. I've just ordered three more copies to give away as gifts. Thank you, Robert, for the gift you have given us in this book. It is a treasure.